November 2023, Johannesburg – In its ongoing effort to fast-track the local adoption of electric mobility, Audi South Africa has launched a national awareness campaign aimed at educating the public about electric vehicle (EV) charging. As part of the campaign, Audi has replaced regular charging points with a mini version of the brand’s electric vehicle chargers in Bidvest Premier Lounges at Cape Town and OR Tambo International Airports’ domestic departure terminals.
Running until the end of January 2024, the campaign invites people to give their phones a boost by using Audi’s mini EV chargers while waiting to board their flights. By allowing passengers to seamlessly charge their smart devices by plugging into the compact chargers, the campaign aims to change the way South Africans perceive EV charging.
“The idea behind the campaign is underpinned by the fact that charging a car feels very unfamiliar to South Africans, but charging our devices is already a habit we’re accustomed to. So, just in time for the holiday season, we’re giving travellers a good opportunity to charge up their devices before their flights, all while showing them that, just like their phone, charging an electric vehicle is easy, quick and convenient,” says Sascha Sauer, Head of Audi South Africa.
In addition to sparking the realisation that charging our devices is already second nature, the campaign aims to inform the public about the growing public charging network and the remarkable fast-charging capabilities of Audi’s EV chargers. Which, depending on the location, are some of the quickest chargers installed by any automotive brand in the country.
Audi’s commitment to electric mobility
Audi’s commitment to electric mobility is at the core of its vision for sustainable transportation. Recognising the pivotal role of a robust public charging infrastructure in the success of electric mobility in South Africa, Audi, in collaboration with its partners, has already invested approximately R45 million in state-of-the-art charging technology. This investment has paved the way for customers to access a rapidly expanding network of more than 400 charging connectors, making electric vehicle ownership convenient and accessible. Of these, Audi has been responsible for 127 charging stations and has plans for more in the future.
Sauer adds, “Audi’s investment is not just in hardware infrastructure but also in making electric mobility simpler and more widely available for South Africans, thus enabling the local EV market to grow.”
Audi South Africa invites everyone who has access to the Bidvest Premier Lounges to experience the ease and efficiency of EV charging with this innovative campaign. By providing a seamless connection between charging your phone and charging your vehicle, Audi is creating progress you can feel by making electric mobility a normal part of everyday life.
Killer Curio
Easy business conditions: In the World Bank’s 2017 Doing Business Report, South Africa was ranked 74 out of 190 countries. The ease of doing business not only brings investment into the country, but creates a desirable environment in starting a business. It is relatively easier to start a recent venture in South Africa than other economies in the world.